Sony FE vs Sony SEL90M28G FE

Overview of the Lenses

The Sony FE 35mm f/1.8 Lens is priced at $798.00, while the Sony SEL90M28G FE 90mm f/2.8-22 Macro G OSS Lens is available for $1,048.00. This makes the 35mm lens about 17% cheaper than its 90mm counterpart. Both lenses are designed for Sony's E-mount mirrorless cameras, but they serve different photographic needs and styles.

Design and Build Quality

In terms of design, the Sony FE 35mm f/1.8 Lens is compact and lightweight, setting a new standard for portability. Its small size makes it an ideal choice for photographers who prioritize travel and ease of use. On the other hand, the Sony SEL90M28G lens, although slightly heavier at 602 grams, features a dust and moisture-resistant design, making it suitable for outdoor use in various conditions. Both lenses exhibit high-quality construction typical of Sony products, but the 35mm lens excels in portability while the 90mm offers ruggedness.

Optical Performance

The optical performance of these lenses varies significantly. The Sony FE 35mm f/1.8 boasts an F1.8 maximum aperture and 9-blade circular aperture, contributing to gorgeous bokeh and high-resolution images. It includes an aspherical element that suppresses aberrations effectively. Meanwhile, the Sony SEL90M28G lens features advanced optical technologies, including Super ED glass and Nano AR coating, which minimize flare and ghosting, while also delivering corner-to-corner sharpness. The maximum aperture of F2.8, while not as wide as the 35mm, allows for a 1.0x maximum magnification, making it exceptional for macro photography.

Focus and Usability

The focus systems of the two lenses highlight their intended use cases. The Sony FE 35mm f/1.8 features fast, precise, and quiet linear-motor autofocus, ideal for capturing spontaneous moments in various lighting conditions. In contrast, the Sony SEL90M28G lens incorporates Direct Drive SSM (DDSSM) for quiet and precise focusing, along with an instant manual/auto focus selection via a sliding focus ring. This makes the 90mm lens particularly user-friendly for macro photography, where precise focusing is essential.

Minimum Focus Distance and Magnification

Minimum focus distance and magnification capabilities differ between the two lenses. The Sony FE 35mm f/1.8 has a minimum focus distance of 8.66 inches and a maximum magnification of 0.24x, suitable for general photography needs. In contrast, the Sony SEL90M28G offers a minimum focus distance of 0.92 feet (0.28 m) and a maximum magnification ratio of 1.0x, making it ideal for capturing close-up details in subjects. This sheer ability to focus closely gives the 90mm lens an edge for macro enthusiasts.

Application and Versatility

When considering application, the Sony FE 35mm f/1.8 lens is a versatile option for street photography, landscapes, and portraits. Its wide aperture allows for shallow depth of field and excellent performance in low light. Alternatively, the Sony SEL90M28G is tailored for macro and portrait photography, providing the ability to capture intricate details and textures. Each lens has its strengths based on the user's intent, making them suitable for different photography styles.

Price Comparison

The price difference between the two lenses is quite significant. The Sony FE 35mm f/1.8 costs $798.00, while the Sony SEL90M28G is priced at $1,048.00, making the latter about $250 more expensive. This price disparity reflects the specialized features of the 90mm lens, particularly its macro capabilities and advanced optics, which can justify the higher investment for serious photographers looking to delve into macro photography.

Which should you buy?

Ultimately, the decision between the Sony FE 35mm f/1.8 and the Sony SEL90M28G comes down to your photography needs. If you prioritize portability, versatility, and a lower price, the 35mm lens is the clear choice. However, if macro photography and the ability to capture fine detail are your primary interests, the 90mm lens, despite its higher price, offers features that can greatly enhance your photography experience.